of pleased wonder, and the Rabbi seemed almost unconscious
of their presence. He was as free from self-consciousness as a little
child, and many a Gentile heart warmed that night to the simple-hearted
sage who stood before them pleading for the rights of human nature.

The old man was often very sad. In such moods he would come round to our
cottage on Post street, and sit with us until late at night, unburdening
his aching heart, and relaxing by degrees into a playfulness that was
charming from its very awkwardness. He would bring little picture-books
for the children, pat them on their heads, and praise them. They were
always glad to see him, and would nestle round him lovingly. We all
loved him, and felt glad in the thought that he left our little circle
lighter at heart. He lived alone. Once, when I playfully spoke to him of
matrimony, he laughed quietly, and said:

"No, no--my books and my poor schoolchildren are enough for me."

He died suddenly and alone. He had been out one windy night visiting the
poor, came home sick, and before morning was in that world of spirits
which was so real to his faith, and for which he longed. He left his
little fortune of a few thousand dollars to the poor of his native
village of Posen, in Poland. And thus passed from California-life Dr.
Julius Eckman, the Rabbi.

My Mining Speculation.

"I Believe the Lord has put me in the way of making a competency for my
old age," said the dear old Doctor, as he seated himself in the armchair
reserved for him at the cottage at North Beach.

"How?" I asked.

"I met a Texas man today, who told me of the discovery of an immensely
rich silver mining district in Deep Spring Valley, Mono county, and he
says he can get me in as one of the owners."

I laughingly made some remark expressive of incredulity. The honest and
benignant face of the old Doctor showed that he was a little nettled.

"I have made full inquiry, and am sure this is no mere speculation. The
stock will not be put upon the market, and will not be assessable. They
propose to make me a trustee, and the owners, limited in number, will
have entire control of the property. But I will not he hasty in the
matter. I will make it a subject of prayer for twenty-four hours, and
then if there be no adverse indications I will go on with it."

The next day I met the broad-faced Texan, and was impressed by him as
the old Doctor had been.

It seemed a sure thing. An old prospector had